Sarbananda Sonowal Inaugurates Chennai Development Project to Enhance Port Infrastructure.

Union Minister of Ports, Shipping & Waterways, Sarbananda Sonowal, inaugurated several development projects totaling ₹187 crore at Chennai Port Authority (ChPA) and Kamarajar Port Limited (KPL) on Monday. These initiatives are designed to enhance port infrastructure, streamline trade operations, and promote green port practices in line with India’s sustainability goals, as outlined in an official press release.

“These projects underscore our commitment to bolstering India's maritime infrastructure while prioritizing sustainability. By implementing green practices and modern infrastructure, we are positioning our ports to meet the demands of global trade while aligning with environmental objectives,” Sonowal stated.

Key projects include:

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  EXIM Godowns: Four new EXIM godowns at Chennai Port, costing ₹73.91 crore, have been constructed with a total area of 18,000 square meters to store sensitive goods, including food grains and agricultural products, that require hygienic and covered storage. Fully funded by the Sagarmala initiative, this project aims to boost major port trade capacity.

  
  


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  Concrete Beach Road: A newly constructed 350-meter-long, 12-meter-wide concrete beach road at a cost of ₹4 crore provides improved access for container and heavy freight movement to the Second Container Terminal (CITPL) at Chennai Port. The road reduces dust pollution, enhances environmental compliance, and supports more efficient port operations.

  
  


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  Railway Connectivity at KPL: An ₹88.91 crore project to double Southern Railway connectivity at KPL includes a 2.65 km railway line, conversion of unmanned crossings to interlocked crossings, and construction of three rail bridges over the Buckingham Canal and Kosasthalai River. This expansion will double the port’s rail handling capacity from 22 to 44 rakes per day, enabling faster and safer cargo movement.

  
  


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  Shore Power Supply for Coal Tankers: A ₹20.51 crore Shore Power Supply Facility has been established at KPL, providing power to coal tankers docked at berths CB1 and CB2. This aligns with India’s Green Port Guidelines by reducing emissions and allowing ships to operate without diesel engines while berthed.

  
  

These developments mark a significant step towards creating a future-ready, sustainable port ecosystem for Chennai and Kamarajar Ports. The Ministry of Ports, Shipping & Waterways remains committed to making India a leading maritime hub by advancing both environmental and infrastructure initiatives, the press release added.

ET